Sarah Britton from My New Roots is my absolute favourite. I love Sarah because her down-to-earth approach and genuine love for whole foods shines through in every recipe she makes and photo she takes. She’s the kind of person I’d want to cook with in my own kitchen at home. Sarah also inspired me to become a Holistic Nutritionist and I strongly share her sentiment that both diet and lifestyle play a powerful role in achieving optimal health and wellness.

3. What’s the one dish you’ve created that’s scored you the most high fives?

Oooh, that’s a tough one! I’d have to say my raw vegan pad thai with spiralized zucchini, kelp noodles and a ton of colourful veggies. I recently made it at a demo for high school students and were thrilled that they licked their plates clean and came back for seconds.

4. What do you want to be when you grow up?

Still trying to figure that one out! My next Rawcology goal is to start selling a line of plant-based dips and snacks that are high protein, high fibre and nutrient-rich. I’d also like to invest in a kitchen space that can be turned into a studio space in which I teach culinary classes, host holistic wellness classes and retreats. The goal is to collaborate with other health and wellness professionals from plant-based chefs, holistic nutritionists, naturopathic doctors, yoga instructors and entrepreneurs to deliver memorable, one-of-a-kind wellness experiences in this space.

5. What’s the one ingredient can’t you live without?

This may be a surprise but I’m going to have to say hemp seeds. I sprinkle them on coconut yogurt, salads, veggie bowls, add them to my smoothies and even my desserts. Hemp seeds are a perfect food, a complete protein, a rich source of essential fatty acids (EFAs) and 3 tablespoons provide 10 grams of protein, 3 grams of fibre and 10.5 grams of EFAs!! They help balance blood sugar levels, support energy production and a strong immune system.

8. Where’s the last place you went to on a date? (and what did you order?)

I went to Raw Aura Organic Cuisine and ordered the Pink Lady juice (yes, it did make me feel like a lady!), and split the Red Beet Ravioli, Nachos and Big Salad with my date. I loved it all but was very impressed by the presentation of the Beet Ravioli. I need to recreate something similar soon!

9. Did becoming vegan bring out any unexpected character traits in you? i.e. are you funnier now than ever before?

Switching to a plant-based diet has definitely made me more sensitive and compassionate in general. I cry in pretty much every drama and cartoon movie.. it’s embarrassing.

10. What’s the one thing you wish more people knew about vegan food?

That eating plants is not a sacrifice – there are endless ways that you can eat more fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. My mission with Rawcology is to inspire and educate people that it’s possible to eat and create easy, healthy and delicious plant-based meals. Eating this way is not complicated. It should be simple and embracing more colourful, vibrant foods is one of the best things you can do for your own health and the health of the planet. I hope I can inspire you to eat more plants, every day!